Peach cook-off names its winners

Published 3:35 pm Saturday, June 18, 2011

Twenty-four contestants participated in the 2011 Chilton County Peach Festival Cook-Off held at the Thorsby First Baptist Church.

Peanut Butter Cookies with Peach Filling and Fried Peach Pies were only a couple of the dishes entered into the 2011 Chilton County Peach Festival Cook-Off, but a Peach Cheese Cake and Peach Mini Cupcakes won the judges’ top votes.

In the youth division, out of seven, Allie Friday’s Peach Mini Cupcakes won first place and Steve Bittermann’s Peach Cheesecake won out of 17 for the adults.

Bittermann, husband to last years’ cook-off winner, won $50, a Lions’ Club Peach Festival T-Shirt and a blue ribbon for his dish. Friday, a first time participant was awarded $25.

“It was lots of fun,” said Friday. “I just wanted to do it, so my grandmother helped me.”

In the youth division, Anna Calhoun’s Chilton County Peach Trifle won second place and Gracie Friday’s Quick Peach Crisp won third.

For the adults, Carolyn Prokopyk’s Fried Peach Pies won second place and Vivian Wallace’s Peaches ‘N Cream Cheesecake Cupcakes won third.

“I participate because it’s just part of Peach Week,” said Prokopyk, whose same dish won first place last year. “My husband won this year, so next year I will have to do something different – or make Steve’s cheesecake.”

The annual cook-off took place at Thorsby First Baptist Church Saturday, June 18 at 10 a.m.

Prior to the announcing of the 2011 cook-off winners Chef Eric Helfinstine of 7 Place Café held a food demonstration at the event. Helfinstine showcased spicy chicken breast with pepper relish and peach glaze. Audience members sampled the dish concluding the demonstration.

Ms. Senior Chilton County 2011, Reba Tucker, entertained the audience with piano selections.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Chilton County Farmer’s Federation, Women’s Committee and Clanton Lions Club sponsored the event.